I would just like to add that I too have used Alumaseal, with very good results. I would also like to add that I concure that it is not a true solution, but it will work and work well, for a couple of years, in my case. Ron Semko 1984 Vangon with 200, 000 plus miles
Michael A. Radtke wrote: > Peter, > > You have received good advice to do the repair. > > However, when my Vanagon's head started leaking and I researched the issue, > what I found was that the most likely time for the leak to show up was with > a cold engine in winter. Granted, once leaking, the cooling system > wouldn't necessarily re-fill from the coolant overflow tank, and air could > enter the system causing worrisome or even expensive problems if the > temperature gauge wasn't watched carefully. > > Since, the leak wasn't likely to begin while driving down the highway, I > reasoned that if I could fix it with a radiator sealer, I wouldn't be > putting the engine at risk. After reading all the bottles, I decided on > "AlumaSeal" since I figured all the powdered aluminum might be sacrificial > and dissolve instead of the cylinder heads continuing to erode. It quickly > fixed the leak. > > I am fully aware that it isn't a permanent cure, and I have had to add > another container of "AlumaSeal" every winter (not this year yet though) > for the last 3 years, but I've gone 40,000 more miles without removing the > heads. As predicted, the first sign of the return of the leak has always > been a few drips under the Vanagon after a cold night. I immediately > respond with more "AlumaSeal." I think that if you check the archives, > others have had success with "Bars Leak" as well. > > Just another point of view, > > Mike '84 GL '58 Isetta |
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